East Harlem funerals continue; Con Ed begins making payments

Matt Kozar has the latest on the funerals and investigations into the East Harlem explosion

March 20, 2014 3:44:28 AM PDT

Eyewitness News

EAST HARLEM --

The emotional goodbyes continue Thursday, eight days after the explosion in East Harlem leveled two buildings. Eight people were killed and scores of residents displaced, and as the victims are laid to rest, some much needed relief is coming to those forced out of their homes.

Con Edison has made compensatory payments to nearly 90 victims and survivors, after federal investigators found a leak in the gas main next to 1646 Park Avenue. The utility is not saying how much each payments is, but that determinations were made after one-on-one meetings with the individuals.

The main was made partly of cast iron and dates back 127 years. It is unclear if a break in a nearby water main, which dates back 117 years, had anything to do with sparking the leak. Investigators are still working to identify the exact cause.

At least one person is suing the city in connection with the explosion.

Meanwhile, hundreds continue to turn out at services being held for the victims.

On Wednesday, family and friends said goodbye to mother and daughter Rosaura Barrios-Vazquez and Rosaura Hernandez-Barrios, 44 and 21, respectively, at the Ortiz Funeral Home on East 116th Street. Their bodies will be flown to Mexico for burial.

Many attendees, overcome with grief, touched the caskets of the two women.

Funeral services were also held for 44-year-old handyman George Amadeo at the Church of St. Raymond Cemetery in the Bronx. Amadeo lived on the top floor of one of the two buildings that collapsed. He died with his pet cocker spaniel Blackie.

Services will be held Thursday afternoon and evening for 22-year-old student and restaurant worker Jordy Salas and 45-year-old Hunter College security officer Griselde Camacho.